Following Callum Wilson’s exit and the failure to sign Joao Pedro or Hugo Ekitike, Newcastle have been left alarmingly short up top. Remove Isak and they appear toothless, which is unnerving given his durability will be tested across 2025-26 with the additional demands of Champions League football.

Newcastle United were without Alexander Isak as they suffered a heavy defeat against Celtic in Glasgow.Eddie Howe admitted that the Swede was not included after speculation of his future although his

Joking aside, Brendan Rodgers will be delighted with the way his side are going up the gears as the season approaches. With a couple of new faces and the return of Cameron Carter-Vickers and Alistair Johnston and his side will be in good shape.

Celtic took the lead before the half hour mark after Joe Willock was penalised for a foul inside the penalty area. Arne Engels stepped up and sent Nick Pope the wrong way to make it 1-0 to the hosts. A Pope error then made it 2-0 as Johnny Kenny stroke the ball into an empty net just before half-time.

Newcastle United are in action at Celtic Park as Eddie Howe takes his side north of the border for their first pre-season clash

Liverpool are keen to sign Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, who missed a pre-season friendly loss against Celtic.

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe made his transfer market frustrations clear following the 4-0 friendly defeat at Celtic on Saturday.